Introduction to ROH Championship Belts
Ring of Honor (ROH) has established itself as a premier wrestling promotion known for its high-quality matches and talented roster. Since its inception, ROH Championship Belts have become symbols of excellence, representing the pinnacle of achievement in the promotion. This collection page provides an in-depth look at the history, design, and significance of each ROH championship belt, highlighting their evolution and the remarkable champions who have held them.
The Origins of ROH and Its First Championship Belt
The Birth of ROH
Ring of Honor was founded in 2002 by Rob Feinstein and Gabe Sapolsky with the goal of creating a wrestling promotion that focused on delivering high-caliber matches and showcasing emerging talent. The promotion quickly gained a reputation for its emphasis on in-ring skill and storytelling, setting the stage for its championships to become highly coveted prizes.
The First ROH World Championship Belt
The ROH World Championship Belt was introduced in 2002, marking the promotion’s commitment to establishing a top-tier title. The initial design featured a classic gold plate with a leather strap, reflecting the traditional aesthetics of wrestling championships while incorporating elements unique to ROH’s identity. This belt symbolized the ultimate prize in ROH and set a high standard for the championships that would follow.
The ROH World Championship Belt
Evolution of the Design
The ROH World Championship Belt has undergone several design changes since its introduction. The original gold-plated belt evolved into more modern versions, incorporating intricate detailing and updated design elements to reflect the promotion's growth and changing style. The current design features a sleek, contemporary look with a prominent central plate and elaborate side plates, symbolizing the prestige and importance of the title.
Iconic Champions
The ROH World Championship has been held by some of the most influential wrestlers in the industry, including Bryan Danielson, CM Punk, and Samoa Joe. Each champion has left a lasting impact on the promotion by delivering memorable performances and contributing to the belt’s storied legacy. Their reigns have showcased the belt’s significance and the high level of competition in ROH.
The ROH World Television Championship Belt
Introduction and Design
The ROH World Television Championship Belt was introduced in 2010 to provide an additional platform for showcasing talent and adding more depth to ROH's championship landscape. Featuring a distinctive design with a gold center plate and modern accents, this belt represents the promotion's commitment to delivering high-quality television matches and entertaining audiences.
Notable Champions
The Television Championship has been held by a variety of wrestlers, including Jay Lethal, Adam Cole, and Roderick Strong. Each champion has contributed to the belt's legacy by providing exciting matches and demonstrating their skills in the ring. The belt’s history is marked by competitive feuds and memorable moments that have added to its prestige.
The ROH World Tag Team Championship Belts
History and Evolution
The ROH World Tag Team Championship Belts were introduced in 2002 to recognize the top tag teams in the promotion. The design of these belts has evolved over time, reflecting the growth and development of the tag team division. From the original gold-plated belts to more recent iterations, the tag team championships have always been a symbol of teamwork and excellence.
Celebrated Tag Teams
The ROH World Tag Team Championship has been held by numerous iconic teams, including The Briscoe Brothers, The Young Bucks, and The Kings of Wrestling. Each team has contributed to the legacy of the belts by delivering exceptional matches and showcasing their chemistry and skills, further establishing the importance of tag team competition in ROH.
The ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Championship Belts
Introduction and Design
The ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Championship Belt was introduced in 2016 to add a new dimension to ROH’s tag team division. Featuring a design that incorporates elements of the existing tag team championships with additional plates and modern detailing, this belt represents the promotion’s commitment to showcasing multi-man tag team matches.
Prominent Holders
The Six-Man Tag Team Championship has been held by several notable trios, including The Kingdom, The Elite, and Villain Enterprises. Each trio has made their mark on the belt by delivering high-energy matches and contributing to the championship’s legacy. The belt’s design and history reflect the excitement and complexity of six-man tag team competition.
The ROH Pure Championship Belt
Concept and Design
The ROH Pure Championship Belt was reintroduced in 2020 to celebrate the return of the Pure Wrestling style to ROH. Featuring a design that emphasizes the classic and technical aspects of wrestling, the Pure Championship incorporates elements that pay homage to the promotion’s focus on in-ring skill and sportsmanship.
Key Holders
The Pure Championship has been held by wrestlers known for their technical prowess, including Jonathan Gresham and Wheeler Yuta. Each champion has contributed to the belt’s legacy by showcasing their technical abilities and competing in matches that emphasize the art of wrestling. The belt represents a return to ROH’s roots and a celebration of pure wrestling competition.
Collecting ROH Championship Belts
Why Collect ROH Belts?
Collecting ROH Championship Belts provides fans and collectors with a unique opportunity to own a piece of wrestling history. Each belt represents a significant chapter in the promotion’s legacy and offers a tangible connection to the moments and champions that have defined ROH. Collecting these belts allows fans to celebrate the achievements of their favorite wrestlers and the rich history of the promotion.
Tips for Collectors
When collecting ROH Championship Belts, it’s important to consider factors such as authenticity, design, and condition. Authentic belts, especially those used in matches or held by notable champions, can be highly valuable and sought after. Ensuring that each belt is well-maintained and in good condition will help preserve its value and significance in the world of professional wrestling.
The Future of ROH Championship Belts
Evolving Legacy
As ROH continues to evolve and shape the future of professional wrestling, the design and significance of its championship belts are likely to change as well. Each new iteration of the belts will reflect the promotion’s ongoing development and the emergence of new stars. Fans and collectors can look forward to the continued evolution of ROH Championship Belts as the brand continues to make its mark on the wrestling world.
Embracing New Talent
The future of ROH Championship Belts will be shaped by the new generation of wrestling talent that the promotion continues to develop. As ROH remains a platform for emerging stars, the belts will continue to represent the pinnacle of achievement for the promotion’s top performers, celebrating their success and contributions to the world of professional wrestling.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Legacy of ROH Championship Belts
The ROH Championship Belt collection is a testament to the promotion’s rich history and the many memorable moments it has produced. From its early days to its current status as a leading wrestling promotion, each belt represents a unique chapter in the story of ROH. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new collector, these belts offer a valuable glimpse into the world of Ring of Honor and its remarkable legacy. As we look to the future, the legacy of these championships will continue to inspire and captivate, ensuring that ROH’s contribution to wrestling remains firmly etched in history.
